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Information on pesticide
What would be the most effective but safe fruit or veg garden pesticide?
(16 May 2007)
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While most people are aware that there a number of pesticides present in the food that we eat on a daily basis, as well as the fact that most of these pesticide residues are bad for the overall health of the body, the concern is more to do with the quantity of these dangerous substances rather than the fact that they are present at all. With the new age of more concern about the ingredients of our food, people have started to question the methods used by large food corporations and their techniques with regards to food production. On a regular basis, people notice that one of the contributing factors of certain conditions will always find their roots in the kinds of foods and their substances consumed.
Pesticides are essentially toxic by nature – helping them dispose of fungi, bugs, rodents and other pests. Too much of these substances, if consumed, can have very dire consequences – some even resulting in the death of the individual. Some of the other conditions that could be caused as a direct result of pesticide consumption include suppression of the immune system, damage to the reproductive system, hormonal system, and nervous system while also causing cancer of the breast. Although a number of the big food corporations will claim that these pesticides are “safe”, people are turning to the much safer and more trusted option of organic foods.
Most people assume that pesticides are completely avoided in the growing of organic food, this is completely incorrect. Traces of pesticides will still be seen, but at a comparatively much smaller level. Organic farmers are allowed to use pesticides such as pyrethrum (which is a commonly used fly-killer spray) mainly because it is already naturally present in some plants. The use of antibiotics such as streptomycin is only acceptable if they have been derived through a fermentation process. Some organic farmers also make use of sulphur to act as a weak pesticide, however since sulphur contains some amount of lead, it can lead to complications in the body. Some of the major health concerns surrounding the consumption of organic foods include the common practice of the use of cow or pig manure when available. However, these substances can possibly be infected by dangerous bacterium such as E Coli 0157 which lives in the guts of cattle. When a person is infected by the bacteria, the end result can be a complete breakdown of the kidneys or even death.
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answered by M W on 3 Mar 2010, 1:40:32
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Even natural pesticides are "pest and plant specific" There are many natural substances which can be used in your garden. However, the exact pests and plants need to be identified. For example, in the Pacific Northwest, we often have a problem with slugs. A little dish of beer will often be effective. For ants, a conconction of boric acid, grape jelly and cheap canned cat food may be helpful. If you are in the US, consider contacting your County Extension Service or Master Gardner program for additional information. http://www.countrydoc.com Dr. Karen Benton, Naturopathic Physician
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answered by Dr K B N on 16 May 2007, 11:01:28
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